Charles Crane/MDN Ray Curtis is serenaded in celebration of his 109th birthday at the Minot Lodge Senior Living center in Minot Wednesday, Feb. 11. afternoon.

The oldest World War II veteran in North Dakota celebrated his 109th birthday party at the Minot Lodge Senior center on Wednesday, Feb. 11, an event which came complete with dignitaries and two massive cakes.

Ray Curtis was born in 1917 in Portal and served in the U.S. Army for five years. He lived in Minot during part of his early life and later life, and has also farmed.

In honor of his service and longevity, Minot City Manager Tom Joyce read a proclamation from Minot Mayor Mark Jantzer declaring Feb. 11 as Ray Curtis Appreciation Day.

“We encourage Minot residents to honor the contributions of Ray, who not only proudly served his country, but personified what it means to be a true North Dakotan by working the family farm for decades, raising a family, and embodying the pioneering spirit of our great state,” Joyce said.

Curtis also received a flag flown in his honor over the United States Capitol Building and a copy of the congressional record from Sen. Kevin Cramer. Curtis was also presented a coin from U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Douglas Collins, along with a letter and challenge coin recognizing his milestone from North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong.

On Tuesday, Feb. 10, Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak spoke on the House floor to congratulate Curtis as a notable North Dakotan. “Like so many from his generation, he answered the call without hesitation and helped secure freedom,” she said. “North Dakota is so proud of Ray Curtis. We are grateful for his service, his sacrifice and his example.”